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So, it's the day after the evening the Romantic Novelists' Association announced the shortlists for the Romantic Novel of the Year award and I am going to confess all... One Wish in Manhattan almost didn't get entered at all.

As most of you will know, digital publishing is fast and furious with tight deadlines and turn arounds and little room to spare. With One Wish in Manhattan's publishing date being 2 October and me flying out to Corfu on holiday on 1 October and not having a final typeset copy in my hands, I was torn. What did I do? Could I make the RNA deadline with something? I don't know why, but I just had a feeling about this Christmas story of mine. I just had to give it its chance, especially because it was the first year digital books were allowed to enter.

So I went for it! My editor sent me the latest Word version we had, I turned it into a PDF copy and I emailed and paid my entry fee blowing good luck kisses all over the envelope.

And look at me now! One of five vying for the title of Romantic Comedy of the Year.

I've attended the RoNAs before and it's a great evening. Last time I went, Richard and Judy were presenting the awards. This time it's Fern Britton. It's going to be a fantastic night full of fun with friends and plenty of celebrating whoever wins.

But today, more than anything, I am thanking the gods of free PDF software, because, without that, I wouldn't be in this fortunate position.